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Billet Doux made of gold inlaid tortoise shell / pique. French 18th century.
Measures 5 1/2inches long when closed.
Tubular shape, almost like a flattened cigar, these containers were used to hold love-letters and given by a gentleman to the lady he was courting. The shell was bent into the appropriate shape and then a very fine pattern carved in the surface and inlaid with gold. Fabulous quality workmanship.
This billet doux is in very good condition with negligible wear, commensurate with it's age, but no damage/chips/cracks. |
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